Becoming a parent is a life-changing experience filled with joy, love, and, at times, sheer confusion. Newborns come into the world with many quirks that may seem odd or even concerning to first-time parents. However, most of these behaviors are completely normal and a part of their development. Understanding these unusual yet common baby behaviors can help parents feel more confident and prepared. Here are four strange behaviors that new parents should expect and how to respond to them.
1. Jerky Movements and Sudden Startle Reflex (Moro Reflex)
One of the first strange behaviors parents notice in their newborns is their tendency to startle dramatically, even when they are sleeping. This reaction, known as the Moro reflex, is an involuntary response that occurs when a baby feels like they are falling or hears a loud noise. Their tiny arms will flail outward, their legs might stiffen, and they may cry for a few seconds before calming down.
Why It Happens:
The Moro reflex is a survival instinct that has been present in humans since ancient times. It helps newborns react to potential danger, even though they are completely dependent on caregivers. The reflex typically fades away by 3 to 6 months of age as the baby’s nervous system matures.
What To Do:
If your baby frequently startles while sleeping, try swaddling them snugly in a soft blanket. Swaddling helps them feel secure and prevents excessive limb movement. Using white noise machines or keeping the room calm and quiet during naps can also minimize sudden startles. However, if your baby’s jerky movements persist beyond six months or appear excessive, consult your pediatrician.
2. Newborn Sneezing a Lot
It might surprise new parents to see their baby sneezing frequently, even when they don’t seem sick. Parents often worry that their baby has a cold or an allergy, but frequent sneezing is completely normal for newborns.
Why It Happens:
Newborns sneeze to clear out their nasal passages, which are very small and easily clogged with dust, lint, or even breast milk/formula that might get into the nose while feeding. Unlike adults, babies breathe primarily through their noses in the first few months, making sneezing an essential reflex.
What To Do:
If your baby seems comfortable, feeding well, and doesn’t have other signs of illness (like fever, congestion, or difficulty breathing), then frequent sneezing is not a cause for concern. However, if sneezing is accompanied by wheezing, excessive mucus, or breathing difficulties, contact your pediatrician. You can also use a nasal saline spray and a bulb syringe to gently clear out your baby’s nose if needed.
3. Grunting and Noisy Breathing During Sleep
New parents often expect their baby to sleep peacefully and quietly, so hearing strange noises, grunts, or even mild snorts while their newborn sleeps can be unsettling.
Why It Happens:
Babies have small, developing airways, and their nasal passages can easily become congested with normal mucus. As a result, they often make little grunting, gurgling, or snoring sounds while breathing. Some babies also grunt while pooping due to weak abdominal muscles, which is perfectly normal.
What To Do:
Most of the time, grunting and noisy breathing are harmless and will resolve as your baby grows. However, if the grunting is accompanied by signs of distress (such as bluish skin, pauses in breathing, or flaring nostrils), seek medical advice immediately. Keeping a humidifier in the baby’s room can help maintain moisture in the air, making breathing easier.
4. Quivering Lips or Chin
Another behavior that often worries new parents is when they notice their baby’s chin or lips quivering, even when the baby doesn’t seem upset. The trembling can be subtle or quite noticeable, especially when the baby is crying or feeding.
Why It Happens:
Newborns have immature nervous systems, which means their muscle control is still developing. This can cause their chin or lips to tremble occasionally, especially when they are excited, hungry, or cold.
What To Do:
Most of the time, quivering is completely normal and will disappear as the nervous system matures. You can help by ensuring your baby stays warm and comfortable. However, if you notice prolonged shaking, tremors in other parts of the body, or if the quivering does not subside within a few months, consult your pediatrician.
Final Thoughts
Newborns have many strange and sometimes confusing behaviors, but most of these are normal developmental phases that require little to no intervention. The key for new parents is to stay informed, observe their baby’s patterns, and know when something truly needs medical attention.
By understanding these four strange but common newborn behaviors, you’ll be better prepared to navigate your baby’s first months with confidence and peace of mind. If you ever feel unsure, don’t hesitate to reach out to your pediatrician for reassurance.
